Natural beauty

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Tag: Natural beauty

Ride Through the Algarve Countryside on Horseback

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Looking for a unique way to experience the Algarve’s natural beauty? Horseback riding is a peaceful and scenic option—and a great activity for families, couples, or solo travelers alike. Just 8 km from Taste Tavira, Quinta do Alvisquer Centro Equestre offers guided rides for all levels of experience, from complete beginners to confident riders.

Set just off the N125, the riding school is run by Antonio, a knowledgeable and patient guide who truly understands both horses and people. Whether you’re looking for a gentle introduction to riding or a more adventurous hack through the countryside, you’re in good hands. Children from 7 years old are welcome, making this an ideal family-friendly experience.

The tours take you through quiet rural paths, open fields, and the kind of Algarve landscape you won’t see from the road. It’s an opportunity to slow down, breathe, and connect with both nature and animal in a very grounded way. No rush, no stress—just the rhythmic sound of hooves on dusty tracks.

For appointments or more information, you can contact Antonio directly via WhatsApp or phone:
📞 +34 615 84 05 30

Whether it’s your first time in the saddle or just another ride in paradise, horseback riding near Tavira might just become the highlight of your trip.

Quinta de Cima – Championship Golf Returns Fall 2025

GolfPosted on

Nestled beside its sister course, Quinta da Ria, Quinta de Cima is renowned as one of the Algarve’s premier championship layouts. Designed by Rocky Roquemore, this par-72 course stretches over 6,586 meters, featuring wide fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and a meandering creek that challenges players across several holes.

In 2025, Quinta de Cima underwent significant maintenance, including the replanting of its fairways with new grass varieties to enhance playability and aesthetics. The course was closed for maintenance from May 26 to September 14, 2025, during which the academy course and short game areas were also closed. The driving range and practice putting greens remained open during this period.

As the course reopens in mid-September 2025, golfers can look forward to improved playing conditions that preserve the course’s natural beauty. The landscape, adorned with centuries-old olive and carob trees, remains untouched by real estate development, offering a pure golfing experience amidst the serene backdrop of the Ria Formosa Natural Park.

Quinta de Cima has previously hosted several prestigious tournaments, including the PGA EuroPro Tour and the European Seniors Tour Qualifying School. With its blend of challenging design and natural charm, the course is set to welcome golfers back for an exceptional playing experience autumn 2025

Quinta da Ria – Golf with a View over the Ria Formosa

GolfPosted on

If you’re looking for a round of golf with unforgettable views, Quinta da Ria Golf Course is hard to beat. Located just a short drive from Tavira, this 18-hole course lies within the Ria Formosa Natural Park and offers a scenic mix of coastal landscapes, freshwater lakes, and orange groves.

Designed by the well-known architect Rocky Roquemore, Quinta da Ria is a par-72 course that combines challenging holes with panoramic backdrops. Several fairways run right alongside the sea, offering sweeping views of the Atlantic and the barrier islands. The greens are fast and well-kept, and there’s a strong breeze on many days to keep even experienced players on their toes.

Facilities include a modern clubhouse, a driving range, putting greens, and a short game area. There’s also a restaurant with a terrace, where you can relax after your game and enjoy fresh Algarvian cuisine while watching the sun set over the course.

Whether you’re a regular golfer or a vacationer looking for a memorable experience, Quinta da Ria delivers both natural beauty and technical enjoyment in equal measure. It’s no wonder it’s consistently ranked among the top courses in the Algarve.

Praia do Barril – A Beach with History and Tranquilit

BeachesPosted on

Nestled just west of Tavira Island, Praia do Barril is a gem that effortlessly blends natural beauty with a touch of local history. You can reach it from Pedras d’El Rei by either taking a charming miniature train or enjoying a scenic walk along a wooden path through the Ria Formosa Natural Park—both options are part of the experience.

The train is fun, especially with kids, but the 1.5 km walk is peaceful and full of birdlife, making it perfect for nature lovers. You can also get there by bicycle via the Ecovia cycling route that runs along the coast. .

What sets Praia do Barril apart is the striking “Anchor Graveyard”—hundreds of rusting anchors arranged in rows as a tribute to Tavira’s historic tuna fishing industry. It’s a poignant and photogenic reminder of the region’s maritime heritage.

The beach itself is wide and clean, with soft golden sand and calm waters ideal for swimming. Facilities include restaurants, cafés, toilets, and loungers. Even in high season, Praia do Barril manages to feel relaxed and spacious—perfect for a full, easygoing beach day.